Unhealthy Relationships: Breaking Free and Building Back with Jesus

Recovery Today with Kandi Rose and Friends
Featuring Darren Salt & Carla Kesler

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In this heartfelt episode of Recovery Today with Kandi Rose and Friends, hosts Kandi Rose, Barbara Ulmer, and Becky Brewer dive deep into one of the most pivotal and personal topics in both recovery and discipleship: unhealthy relationships.

Whether it’s a toxic friendship, an unequally yoked romantic partner, or the subtle pull of past influences, this conversation isn’t just about identifying what’s wrong—it’s about inviting Jesus to make it right.

Joined by testimony guests Darren Salt and Carla Kesler, this episode delivers Scripture, transparency, truth, and hope—all designed to help viewers let go of the relationships that drag them down and cling to the One who lifts them up.

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“Bad Company Corrupts Good Character”

From the very beginning, the Word of God speaks directly to the relationships we keep:

“Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good morals.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked… but his delight is in the law of the Lord.” – Psalm 1:1-2

Kandi and her co-hosts unpack these verses with humility and conviction, sharing how their own relationships—before coming to Christ—played a role in drawing them into sin and addiction.

Barbara testifies that although she was raised in church, it wasn’t until she surrounded herself with on-fire believers that her faith came alive. “I realized I knew religion, but I didn’t know God,” she admitted. It was the community of Spirit-filled Christians that helped her experience transformation, not just information.

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Guarded for Growth: Setting Boundaries in Recovery

Becky Brewer’s wisdom hit especially hard as she reflected on her early days out of prison. Her decision to avoid social media entirely was not about legalism—it was about protection. “I couldn’t reconnect with old friends. I had to break those ties,” she shared. “Today, I tell every woman I mentor: we’re going to walk this out together, hand-in-hand, in unity.”

That call to healthy community echoed throughout the episode. It’s not just about walking away from unhealthy people—it’s about walking toward healthy, godly relationships that encourage growth, honesty, and spiritual maturity.

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Kandi’s Journey: From Stripping to Sisterhood

Kandi brought her own powerful story to the table. Once a stripper and prostitute, she opened up about how her environment influenced her behavior—even down to her language. “I couldn’t talk about the weather without cussing,” she said, laughing. “Now, I can’t stand to be around it.”

She spoke openly about the natural desire for companionship and how loneliness can tempt even strong believers to compromise. “I backslid once because I got too close to someone I wasn’t supposed to be with,” she said. “But God’s rules aren’t there to restrict us—they’re there to protect us.”

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Darren & Carla: A Testimony of Total Transformation

The second half of the episode featured one of the most moving testimonies yet. Darren Salt, once a meth addict, violent and suicidal, cried out to Jesus in desperation: “If You’re real, I need help.”

That moment changed everything. He had an instant spiritual awakening, and the Lord began a radical transformation in his life. Now clean for nearly 15 years, Darren runs a successful veteran-owned construction company, leads others in recovery, and lives as a bold follower of Christ.

“I’m not just a believer,” Darren said. “I’m a follower. I’m an on-fire Jesus freak.”

His wife, Carla, shared her own testimony of being a teenage mom, enduring multiple marriages, and cross-addicting in various ways. Though her path was different, the end was the same—Jesus met her, healed her, and gave her a new identity.

Their love story was divinely orchestrated: Carla was the first Christian friend Darren ever had after getting clean. It took 10 years of friendship before they married, and now they serve the Lord together, radiating joy and purpose.

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Don’t Settle for Less—Wait for God’s Best

Becky summed it up best when she said, “Yes, we desire connection. That’s how God made us. But any relationship pursued outside the boundaries of His Word will become distorted.”

These relationships aren’t just dangerous—they can derail destiny.

Candi wrapped up with wisdom for those struggling to let go: “You don’t need to stay in a situation that’s keeping you bound. God will help you release those relationships, and He’ll surround you with people who will help you grow.”

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A Prayer for Freedom

The episode concluded with the hosts leading a heartfelt prayer of salvation. With sincerity and unity, they invited viewers to turn from their old life, surrender to Jesus, and step into the freedom that only comes through Him.

“Don’t settle for less,” Kandi said. “Wait for God’s best.”

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Ministry Resources & Help

Viewers were also reminded of the incredible ministries featured on the show:

• Shalom Recovery Centers
• Gideon House, Esther House, and Living Waters Recovery
• More Than a Mug Shot Recovery
• Restoration of Hope
• Addiction Free Ministry

And of course, Recovery Today continues to offer prayer support and encouragement through its website and broadcasts—reaching not just the United States, but over 200 nations worldwide.

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Final Thoughts

This episode was more than encouragement—it was a clear roadmap:

• Break toxic ties.
• Surround yourself with godly influences.
• Wait for relationships that align with God’s will.
• Let your testimony speak louder than your trauma.

And above all, lean on Jesus—the only one who can truly make all things new.